Manali Workshop to Boost Ski Mountaineering in India
Skimo India Federation hosts Spanish experts in Manali to create a global roadmap for ski mountaineering in the Himalayas.
The Skimo India Federation has taken a significant step toward elevating the profile of ski mountaineering in India by hosting a specialized workshop in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. The event, held on Sunday, focused on creating an international-standard roadmap to transform the sport within the country.
Spanish Experts Highlight Himalayan Potential
To ensure the highest level of expertise, the workshop featured renowned coaches and experts from Spain, Alberto and Hector. These specialists engaged in intensive discussions with federation members regarding the technical strengthening of the sport and the preparation of Indian athletes for the global stage.
The Spanish experts emphasized that the Himalayan region, particularly Himachal Pradesh, possesses the ideal natural resources required for high-level ski mountaineering. They suggested that with structured training and strategic development, North India could evolve into a major global hub for the discipline.
Building a Pathway to International Medals
The primary goal of this initiative is to establish a structured pathway that allows Indian athletes to compete effectively in international competitions and secure medals for the nation. By aligning domestic training with international standards, the federation aims to bridge the gap between local talent and global excellence.
Praveen Sood, President of the Skimo India Federation, highlighted the collaborative efforts currently underway. He noted that the federation is working closely with the Sports Authority of India and the Ministry of Sports to promote the sport across the country.
Rising Success in a Developing Sport
While ski mountaineering is still a relatively new discipline in India—with the federation having been active for only three to four years—the results are already showing promise. Sood revealed that approximately 150 athletes from across India are currently competing at the national level.
A significant milestone was recently achieved when an Indian athlete secured a seventh-place finish at the Asian Championship. Sood described this as a remarkable feat for a developing sport and noted that the natural stamina possessed by the youth in Himalayan regions provides a perfect foundation for technical training and elite performance.